What Kind Of Cable Should Your Subwoofer Be Using?

Adding a subwoofer to your home audio system is an excellent way to optimize bass performance. Just remember that various factors can influence how well a subwoofer delivers on its potential. One of the factors is the type of cable you use to connect the subwoofer to the rest of the system. Although a typical RCA cable may be perfectly acceptable for most, there are advantages to an XLR cable if your subwoofer offers this option.

Professionals tend to use XLR cables over RCA cables in environments like studios and related settings. That's simply because XLR cables are technically superior to RCA cables. XLR cables are designed to minimize interference, resulting in a more balanced signal. They can also carry a signal across a relatively long distance without a degradation in sound quality. On top of that, XLR cables are quite durable, staying in good condition for a long time and reliably staying connected to devices.

However, just because XLR cables are professional grade, that doesn't mean you need one for your subwoofer. Yes, if your subwoofer offers the option, choosing an XLR cable over an RCA cable will theoretically improve your home audio experience. That said, the advantages XLR cables offer might not be particularly necessary for the average home audio enthusiast. There are actually a few reasons choosing an RCA cable might make more sense for you.

The benefits that XLR cables offer aren't particularly relevant in a home theater setting. For example, unless your space is quite large, the fact that XLR cables perform well across long distances won't make much of a difference in sound quality from your subwoofer. Similarly, while it's certainly a good thing that XLR cables are durable, that level of durability doesn't serve much of a practical purpose in a standard home theater or living room.

On the other hand, because RCA cables are more commonly used among typical consumers, they're easier to find and more affordable than XLR cables. In addition, they're often more compatible with other consumer devices and appliances, while also allowing for easy connectivity. In other words, there's reasons to consider both. 

The right choice for you will depend on your needs and goals. For many, using an RCA cable as a subwoofer's cable is perfectly acceptable. However, if you're a true audiophile, you may appreciate the differences an XLR cable can make. If so, you should also research the best subwoofers for audiophiles to find one that will satisfy your expectations. In general, it's also wise to learn about choosing the best subwoofer size for your particular audio system.